It’s not unusual to find a stump beginning to sprout even after the trauma of tree removal. Indeed, it seems that some trees like to be chopped down just so they can come back stronger! But there are ways to prevent these stubborn stumps from sprouting. Because some of these methods can be tricky, it’s best to call an arborist for help.

Keep Grinding the Stump

Sometimes, you’ll need to just keep grinding away at the stump until it gets the message. Grinding should be done by a professional who will wear the right protective gear, use the right equipment, and grind the stump in a way that’s relatively safe. A professional will also set up a perimeter around the work area to protect passersby.

Try Epsom Salt

Though some gardeners spray Epsom salt solution on plants to help them flower and set fruit, too much Epsom salt on a plant’s roots can be fatal. To kill a stump once and for all, your arborist will need to drill holes into the stump to a depth of about 8 inches. After the holes are drilled, fill them with Epsom salt, then add enough water to dampen it. Keep doing this every three weeks or so until you’re sure the stump is dead. When the stump is dead, it turns black and is easy to break apart.

Have a Professional Burn the Stump

This last method is admittedly controversial and should be done by a professional. Additionally, you’ll need to find out if you can actually burn anything in your neighborhood or if there are certain days when burning is allowed. As with the application of Epsom salt, the arborist drills 8-to-10-inch-deep holes in the stump. They’ll then pour kerosene into the holes and leave it for a few days, adding some more now and then. This allows the kerosene to saturate the wood. Then, the arborist spreads charcoal around and on top of the stump and finally sets it on fire. They’ll also dampen the area around the stump, and keep it damp to prevent the fire from spreading.

It can take as little as a few hours or as long as a few days for the fire to reduce the stump to ashes. During that time you’ll need to keep an eye on the burning stump, and make sure the area around it is kept damp. The job is completed when the stump is completely reduced to ash, and the ashes have stopped smoldering. When the ashes have cooled, you can shovel them up and dispose of them.

If Your Stump Keeps Sprouting, Give Us a Call

A stump that keeps coming back is frustrating. If you need stump grinding that works once and for all, call our professional arborists at Triangle Tree Pros of Raleigh, NC.